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 | Jones Very : The Complete Poems |  |
The Rights of Man
With narrow view each state its own would claim,Forgetful of the greater common good;
Forgetful of its heritage of fame,
When they the mightiest foe on earth withstood.
The Rights of Man seem now a short-lived dream,
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Of boastful orators the annual theme,
Or glory of which poets vainly sing.
Thus we our selfish ends too oft pursue,
Blinded by avarice, or lust of power;
Seeking our own, yet to ourselves untrue,
Unfaithful to our Country, and the hour;
Nor know that in the nation's good each state,
Whate'er it boasts, alone is truly great.
Poem No. 838; c. 15 March 1861
| Jones Very : The Complete Poems | |